Canada Visa Application in Nigeria: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

If you are thinking of traveling to the beautiful country of Canada but not sure where to start with your visa application process, let’s talk about Canada Visa Application in Nigeria

As a Nigerian citizen, applying for a Canadian visa can seem intimidating.

However, with the right preparation and documentation, you can get through the process smoothly.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for different types of Canadian visas from Nigeria

We will also talk about eligibility requirements, documents needed, application procedures, and more.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Types of Canadian Visas for Nigerians

There are several visa categories a Nigerian can apply for depending on your reason for travel.

1. Tourist Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

If you want to visit Canada for tourism or recreational purposes like sightseeing, visiting friends/family, attending sporting/cultural events, etc. for less than 6 months, you need a tourist visa.

This is the most common visa Nigerians apply for.

2. Study Permit

This is required if you plan to study in Canada for 6 months or longer at a designated learning institution.

For this, different documents are required compared to a tourist visa.

3. Work Permit

You need this to work legally in Canada.

You must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer willing to support your work permit application.

4. Transit Visa

For transit travel through Canada when traveling between two other countries, with a confirmed ticket for departure on the same or the following calendar day.

4. Super Visa

This allows parents/grandparents of Canadian/permanent resident children/grandchildren multiple entries for up to 10 years without needing individual visitor visas.

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Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Tourist Visa

The eligibility requirements for a Canadian temporary resident (tourist) visa include:

Valid Nigerian passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your intended date of departure from Canada.
Proof of sufficient funds to cover travel plans and living costs in Canada without working. Funds can be in your bank statements.
Intent to leave Canada by your visa’s expiration date and proof of strong economic, social, or family ties to return to Nigeria.

No criminal record or medical condition that can impact public health in Canada.
Having a valid onward or return ticket unless your total intended stay is 6 months or less.
Travel medical insurance for medical costs during your entire stay in Canada.

Documents Required for Canada Visa Application in Nigeria

Here are the main documents you need to include with your Canada Visa Application in Nigeria

Completed online or paper Visitor Visa Application Form (IMM 5257).
Passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank visa pages.
2 recent passport photos meet Canadian specifications.
Proof of funds like bank statements for the last 6 months showing sufficient balance
Travel itinerary including inbound and outbound flight/bus/train bookings.
Travel medical insurance is valid for the entire Canada trip duration.
Letter of invitation from family/friends in Canada including their contact details.
Employment/school letters as proof of strong ties to return to Nigeria.
Evidence of property, assets, or business in Nigeria as ties to return.

Note: It’s advisable to submit certified notarized copies rather than originals except for your passport.

In addition, have all documents translated into English or French.

Documents Required for Minors Applying for Canada Visitor Visa

If you’re a minor or you have a minor (under 18), you need some additional documents for the Canada Visa Application in Nigeria:

Application signed by both parents (if available) or legal guardians consenting to the trip.
Copies of parent or guardian identification like driver’s license or national ID card.
Parent or guardian consent letter authorizing the minor’s travel without them.
Minor’s birth certificate showing parents or guardian’s names.
Notarized affidavit from parents or guardians permitting to travel.
Contact details of the accompanying minor or guardian they will travel/stay within Canada.

How Much Does a Canada Visa Application in Nigeria Cost?

The standard processing fees for a Canada Visa Application in Nigeria are:

Visitor Visa: ₦57,000 to 200,000 depending on the visa.
Study Permit: ₦180,000
Work Permit: ₦300,000
Transit Visa: Nigerians no longer need to pay for a transit visa if they have a valid visa for a member state.
Super Visa: ₦800,000

Additionally, you’ll need to consider the cost of documents like passports and photos you need.

Also, a visitor visa can be submitted via the VAC’s regular or expedited processing channels

How to Apply for a Canada Visa in Nigeria

Here are the steps to apply for a Canada Visa Application in Nigeria

Determine the visa type and check eligibility requirements
Download the application form or apply online from the VAC website
Gather all required documents and certified copies
Book a biometrics appointment online
Attend the appointment and submit biometrics, photos, and documents

Wait for processing at the Visa Application Centre
Check online for a decision and collect your passport with visa if approved
Make travel arrangements if approved for the intended Canada visit

During biometrics, your photo and fingerprints are captured digitally.

Also, applications can take 1 to 3 months depending on visa type.

Where to Apply for Canada Visa in Nigeria

There are currently two Visa Application Centers (VAC) in Nigeria where you can submit your Canadian visa application:

VAC Lagos: 4 Anifowoshe Street, Victoria Island, Lagos
VAC Abuja: Silverbird Entertainment Centre, Plot 1161, Memorial Drive, Central Business District, Abuja.

Both are privately run centers on behalf of the Canadian government.

You must apply at the VAC closest to your place of regular residence in Nigeria.

Key Takeaway

There are several types of Canadian visas available for Nigerians depending on the purpose of travel.

These include tourist visas, study permits, work permits, transit visas, and super visas. Each type of visa has its own eligibility criteria and required documents, which must be carefully reviewed before submitting an application.

To apply for a Canadian visa in Nigeria, applicants must first determine the appropriate visa type and check the eligibility requirements.

You can then download the application form or apply online from the Visa Application Centre (VAC) website.

After gathering all required documents and certified copies, you must book a biometrics appointment and attend the appointment to submit your biometrics, photo, and documents.

In addition, there are two VACs in Nigeria where applicants can submit their Canadian visa applications: VAC Lagos and VAC Abuja.

The standard processing fees for a Canadian visa application in Nigeria vary depending on the type of visa, ranging from ₦57,000 to ₦800,000.

You should also consider the cost of required documents such as passports and photos.

We hope this guide on Canada Visa Application in Nigeria has been helpful.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Canada Visa Application in Nigeria

Can I apply myself or do I need an agent?

You don’t require an agent and can submit your application yourself provided you follow the guidelines correctly.

Moreover, agents usually charge high fees unnecessarily.

How long will my application take?

Standard processing times are 1 to 3 months depending on visa type and volume.

You can pay for express service if you need it faster.

What are the main requirements?

You need a valid reason to visit, meet eligibility criteria, and have documentation like tickets, insurance, proof of funds, and ties.

Can I work part-time while visiting?

No, Canadian visas strictly prohibit employment or conducting business activities, even volunteering.